On March 5, 2024, Cham Nimul, Cambodia’s Minister of Commerce, engaged in pivotal discussions with Senator Hon Tim Ayres, Australia’s Assistant Minister for Trade and Manufacturing, aiming to deepen the friendship and economic ties between Cambodia and Australia. This significant meeting occurred in the context of Prime Minister Hun Manet’s participation in the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the dialogue partnership between ASEAN and Australia, as stated by the Ministry of Commerce.
Senator Ayres extended a heartfelt welcome to Minister Nimul, acknowledging her presence in Australia for this landmark event. Minister Nimul reciprocated with gratitude, appreciating Senator Ayres for the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue alongside the Cambodian commerce delegation.
During their conversation, both parties lauded the substantial progress achieved in bilateral trade between the two nations. They engaged in a fruitful exchange on strategies to further enhance and promote commercial activities and trade ties. A key focus of the discussion was the effective implementation of the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement, aiming to solidify the trade relationship and economic collaboration between Cambodia and Australia.
Minister Nimul emphasized the critical role of the private sectors from both countries in contributing to Cambodia’s economic progress, highlighting the significance of job creation, as well as the diversification of trade and industry within the nation.
Furthermore, Minister Nimul encouraged the Australian business community and investors to expand their commercial endeavors and consider further investments in Cambodia, particularly in sectors identified as high priority for economic development by the Royal Government of Cambodia. These sectors include agriculture and agro-processing, logistics, e-commerce, and digital technology, among others, pointing to a promising horizon for bilateral cooperation and investment opportunities.
